Dec 13, 2015

Shipshape and Bristol Fashion: Be Temple Worthy - in Good Times and Bad Times

Have I mentioned before that I'm a list person? Yep- I love making a list and checking it twice. I also love conference talks that give you a list of things to do. . .a checklist of sorts.

Elder Cook's talk gives us a list of 4 things we can do to overcome challenges and temptations that each of us inevitable will face.

". . . the storms and temptations of this life are often unpredictable. But this we know: they will come! In order to overcome the challenges and temptations that each of us inevitably faces, it will require righteous preparation and the use of divinely provided protections. . ."

1.TEMPLE WORTHY

"We must determine to be temple worthy regardless of what befalls us. . ."

2. RIGHTEOUS SELF-CONTROL and CONDUCT

Quoting Maria Konnikova,

"self-control is like a muscle: the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Avoiding something tempting once will help you develop the ability to resist other temptations in the future."

A year ago I embarked on a diet change by following a Whole30. Basically you eliminate all dairy, sugars, and grains from your diet for 30 days. At first this was not an easy task. I had to use much self-control to keep myself from caving into my cravings. As each day of the 30 days progressed, it became easier and easier to resist these things, and by the end, I was no longer tempted by a great big piece of chocolate cake, or a steamy hot plate of pasta. I had strengthened my self-control muscle.

3. HONORING THE SABBATH

"Honoring the Sabbath will increase righteousness and be a protection for the family."

". . .honoring the Sabbath is a form of righteousness that will bless and strengthen families, connect us with our Creator, and increase happiness. The Sabbath can help separate us from that which is frivolous, inappropriate, or immoral. It allows us to be in the world but not of the world."

There are tons of blessings given for obeying the commandment to keep the Sabbath Day holy.

"As we navigate the seas of life, following the impressions of the Holy Ghost is essential. The Spirit will help us avoid temptations and comfort and lead us through challenges."

Elder Cook ends his talk with a powerful promise:

"My dear brothers and sisters, life is not easy, nor was it meant to be. It is a time of testing and trial. Like the old ships in Bristol Harbor, there will be times when the tide goes out and it seems as if everything in this world keeping us afloat disappears. We may hit the bottom and even be tipped over on our sides. Amid such trials, I promise you that living and maintaining temple-worthy lives will hold together all that really matters. The sweet blessings of peace, happiness, and joy, along with the blessings of eternal life and celestial glory with our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, will be realized. I so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen"